New facial recognition technology created, rolled out in Pasadena

The nation's first hands-free, facial recognition payment network has been rolled out in Pasadena.  

Dozens of small business owners have embraced the advanced technology that lets customers make secure, 100 percent contact-free purchases using only their faces. 

Users can now add a credit or debit card to their PopID accounts to pay with their faces as a safer, hands-free alternative to cash, credit cards or Apple Pay. 

PopID, a company based in Pasadena, developed the system. 

It follows the successful implementation of the company’s "PopEntry" facial recognition device that allows workers and students to safely scan-in to their workplace and college campus facilities. Pop Entry uses an infrared scan to check temperatures. 

The technology is now being used in hundreds of restaurants, retailers, universities, and offices. 

Some of the Pasadena restaurants and retailers now accepting PopPay include: 
• Again Café
• Arroyo Chop House
• BAN SUP refill
• Barcelona
• Bubble Puff and Tea
• CaliBurger
• Contessa Italian Foods
• Daddy’s Chicken Shack
• DogHaus
• Fair Oaks Burger
• The Fit Bar Superfood Cafe
• Food Bar
• Lêberry Bakery
• Lemonade
• Mediterranean Grill
• Milkcow Café
• Monopole Wine
• Parkway Grill
• Pho Banh Mi Che Cali
• Real Food Cafe
• Space Bar Wellness Center
• Smitty’s
• Sorriso
• Taste of Pace
• Tortas Mexico

Customers can take advantage of PopID’s facial recognition payment service in one of a number of ways: at the drive-thru, at an in-venue kiosk, via a display screen affixed to the sneeze guard at the counter, or tableside with a waiter scanning the patron’s face using a handheld Android device. Once recognized, the business simply draws from the customer’s PopID account before sending a text message confirming payment.

PopID accounts also tie to loyalty programs for automatic credit with every purchase. The user has full control over their account and can opt-out of the secure service at any time. 

Click here for more information.